For the 2012 model year, the Cadillac SRX is getting an engine upgrade to General Motors’ 3.6-liter direct-injected V-6. The update crossover has had its price grow for the new model year to $36,935, including the $875 destination charge, a price increase of $1445 from 2011.
What’s new for 2012, exactly? The biggest changes lie within the engine compartment. SRXs are now equipped with GM’s direct-injection 3.6-liter V-6 -- similar to that used in the CTS -- and a revised six-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivers a healthy 308 hp, which is a welcome change from the 265 hp offered by the outgoing 3.0-liter V-6 -- which, following the death of the 2.8-liter turbocharged V-6 option, was the only engine offering. Cadillac says the new engine shouldn’t be any thirstier than the 3.0-liter; front-wheel-drive models are still expected to return 18/25 mpg (city/highway) in EPA testing.
Along with the new engine, Bluetooth is standard for all SRX models. New options for 2012 include a heated steering wheel, a new finish for 20-inch wheels, a xenon blue metallic exterior paint color, and an all-ebony interior with contrasting stitching. All-wheel drive remains an option on all SRX trim levels.
The SRX has been crucial to Cadillac’s resurgence in the past few years; the current generation debuted in 2010 and has been one of the brand’s best-selling vehicles. GM claims that 71 percent of SRX buyers are new to the Cadillac brand, and SRX sales are currently up 18 percent so far this year. Caddy’s crossover was also rated last year as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The 2012 Cadillac SRX will available at Cadillac dealerships nationwide starting in August.